POPSUGAR Celebrity

5 Tips to Stop Stress Eating

Mar 25 2014 - 6:48pm

When you're feeling a little down in the dumps, chowing down on a helping of comfort food may seem like a quick fix, but you're only doing your body injustice. Stress eating is a real issue that affects our ability to lose weight and keep it off.

Remember, you're in control. When you feel like you're not in control of what you're eating, you won't be. You're the only person with the power to change this problem. Recognizing your propensity to reach for solace in the form or fast food or sweet treats is the first step to taking control back.

Stop snacking mindlessly as you watch TV. Coming out of a slight daze and realizing you've inhaled a bag of chips is not the best feeling in the world. If watching TV and snacking go hand in hand in your house, make a point to stop the cycle. If you can't give up snack time while you're by the tube, make it a point to snack on something clean and healthy.

Take stock of what all you're eating. Keeping a food journal may seem like a laborious task, but after a day or two, you'll understand its benefits. Writing down what you're eating ensures that you start taking responsibility for what you put into your body. If you realize you've been taking part in hours of empty snacking, you'll be more likely to cut back naturally.

Banish problem foods. If you don't have the willpower right now to say no to unhealthy foods when you see them, it's time to bid them adieu from your kitchen. Eliminating the culprit from the equation will help you cut down the mindless eating at home — and reach for something that's better for you.

Honestly ask yourself, "Am I hungry?" It seems so simple, but these three little words make a world of difference. Before you pull out food without thinking, asking yourself this simple question will help you recognize when you're actually hungry or when you're just trying to fill up an emotional or physical void.